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Every year, I remind myself not to sow Cucamelons, yet every year I tend to end up with some one way or another. This year I have 4 strong trailing plants in pots standing on the staging and tied in to keep the unruly vines from attaching to everything else around them, namely the Aubergines and Chillis!
What are cucamelons?
Cucamelons are small melons that taste like sweet cucumbers, small as in grape size and grow on fast growing vines undercover. The reason why most years I say I won’t grow them again is there tends to be a great deal of foliage compared to crops but they are so tempting, I can never resist. Pop them in a cocktail, mocktail or just as a refreshing snack when you are working in the garden. Equally nice on salads too for a fresh zing, so yes they are worth it - if you have space. Don’t say I didn’t warn you!
How to grow Cucamelons in a Greenhouse
When are cucamelons ready to be harvested, and what are the signs to look for?
Cucamelons reach their prime harvest time when they are about the size of olives or small grapes. It's essential to pick them while they are still firm to the touch. If they are left on the vine too long, they tend to develop a bitter taste and can become overly soft, which compromises their texture. Timely harvesting ensures you get cucamelons at their best in both flavor and consistency.Can cucamelons be treated as a perennial, and if so, what steps should be taken during the winter months?
Yes, cucamelons can indeed be grown as perennials, which allows them to produce fruit continuously each year. To ensure they survive through the winter and thrive in subsequent seasons, there are a few crucial steps to follow:
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End of season care: As the fruiting phase concludes in late autumn, it's essential to prepare the cucamelon for its dormant period. Start by carefully digging up the main root, which resembles that of a radish.
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Winter storage: Once extracted, the root should be stored properly to survive the cold season. Place the root in a container filled with barely moist compost. This setup should then be kept in a cool, frost-free environment like a garage or shed through the winter months.
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Replanting in spring: As winter ends and early April approaches, it's time to replant the root. Replanting early in the spring encourages the cucamelon plant to start fruiting sooner, giving you an early start on the growing season.
By following these steps, you can successfully cultivate cucamelons year after year, enjoying their unique flavor and numerous gardening benefits.
